Walking With Nature Through C.E.-a/r/tography: Repairing Our Planet Through Ancient Artistic Methods

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 1:45 pm Four Seasons Ballroom 1
  In Roundtable Session: Restorative Arts: Repair, Remediation, and Healing (Table 3)

Abstract

This paper explores the integration of Cultural Ecology and A/r/tography, forming the innovative framework C.E.-a/r/tography. By combining ancient artistic methods from Canada’s First Nations Coast Salish and China’s Bai ethnic minority (白族), we investigate how traditional arts can foster sustainability awareness. Through the creation of “Weaving the Clouds” and “Tie-dyeing the Sea”, we engage in a profound dialogue with nature, aiming to repair our planet and reconnect human-nature relationships. Our interdisciplinary approach highlights the significance of art education in addressing environmental crises, encouraging a reflective and interactive process that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries. This study seeks to inspire sustainable development and deepen our understanding of environmental impact through artistic practice.

Authors

• Mengkai Zhang, University of Victoria

• Xin Chen, University of British Columbia